Arequipa and Colca Canyon Extension

Take in the colonial splendor of Arequipa, set on the edge of the Andes and surrounded by spectacular mountains, including snow-capped El Misti, a 19,000-foot volcano that makes a striking backdrop for the city. Explore the city’s harmonious and beautifully preserved colonial center of white stone architecture, recently listed as a World Heritage Site, then head out into the countryside to enjoy the grandeur of massive Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, flanked by glaciers and volcanoes. The canyon’s walls preserve some of the finest Inca terracing in Peru and shelter traditional Indian villages. Here you may spot Andean condors circling up from the canyon depths.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Lima / Arequipa

Fly from Lima to Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its colonial architecture of white volcanic stone. Enjoy a half-day tour, including the Santa Catalina convent, a 400–year-old nunnery that is the main architectural monument of the city, the Compañía Church, and the traditional districts of Cayma and Yanahuara. Overnight at hotel in Arequipa...B

Day 2
Colca Canyon

Head into the mountains to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, with views en route of snow-capped volcanoes as you cross a 16,000-foot pass. We arrive in Chivay in time for lunch and a chance to enjoy the thermal baths at Calera, set amid remarkable Inca and pre-Inca terraces. We continue to Colca Canyon for overnight...BLD

Day 3
Arequipa

Visit Cruz of the Condor, a strategic point for viewing the canyon and its spectacular condors in flight. On our return drive to Arequipa, we visit lovely colonial villages with attractive colonial architecture and churches, including Coporaque, which has the oldest temple in the valley and is still in use. Overnight at hotel in Arequipa...BL

Day 4
Cusco or Lima

Transfer to the airport for your departing flight...B